we victimize ourselves further when we let our fear prevent us from doing what we need to do. - Nedra Glover Tawwab

We simply can’t have a healthy relationship with another person without communicating what’s acceptable and unacceptable to us.

We don't naturally fall into perfect relationship; we create them

Avoidance is a passive-aggressive way of expressing that you are tired of showing up. Hoping the problem will go away feels like the safest option, but avoidance is a fear-based response. Avoiding a discussion of our expectations doesn’t prevent conflict. It prolongs the inevitable task of setting boundaries.